Michael Parks Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: South Fork 2-10 South Fork 2-6
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Michael Parks Dam, located in Pawnee, Nebraska, is a vital piece of infrastructure owned by the local government for flood risk reduction on Turkey Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 30.6 feet and spanning 730 feet in length, this earth dam was completed in 1980 and offers a storage capacity of 91.4 acre-feet. Despite its significance in mitigating flood risks, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 indicated poor maintenance, posing a potential hazard that is currently categorized as low.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the Michael Parks Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters. While the dam's design includes stone core types and soil foundations, its maintenance and upkeep are essential for preserving its effectiveness in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water resource demands.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data surrounding Michael Parks Dam highlight the intersection of infrastructure, natural hazards, and environmental stewardship. The dam's location, dimensions, and associated risks underscore the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to uphold its functionality and protect the local community from flooding events. By understanding and advocating for the resilience of structures like Michael Parks Dam, individuals can contribute to sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in Nebraska and beyond.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
730 |
Dam Height |
30.6 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
30.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.76 |
Nid Storage |
91.4 |
Structural Height |
30.6 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Iron Horse Trail Lake
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Burchard Lake State Wildlife Area
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Humboldt Lake Park
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Michael Parks Dam